Auto Union race car Type D 12 cylinder

In 1932 when Auto Union AG evolved from Audi, DKW, Horch and Wanderer, a high-calibre racing commitment served to hone the new company’s profile between 1934 and 1939.

Revolutionary 16-cylinder racing cars were created that were far ahead of their times. The mid-engine design with the powerplant located in front of the rear axle did not establish itself firmly in racing until 1960. The consecutive Audi Union model ranges A, B, C and D, some of which delivered more than 500 hp, celebrated a total of 23 Grand Prix victories within a span of six years.

During the DMT presentation at Düsseldorf yesterday, spectators marvelled at the brilliant form of the Auto Union Type D and Audi A4 DTM. Like grandfather and grandson the two racing cars symbolised the victorious tradition of the emblem with the four rings.

Today, the emblem with the four rings still stands for the development of high technology for successes in racing – Auto Union became Audi, and the duels between the brands from yesterday continue in today’s DTM. The 460-hp Audi A4 DTM, that made its debut in 2004, has clinched eight victories in 21 races in less than two years. Audi has developed the A4 DTM in order to continue the success story in 2006. After all, the idea is to write history again just like in the days of the Auto Union brand.

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